The Sacred Memory of the Holy Glorious Apostle and Evangelist St Mark, the founder of the Second Throne Patriarchate was commemorated with solemnity on Saturday 25th April 2020 at the Ancient Patriarchate of Alexandria and All Africa.
After the martyrdom of his companion, the Apostle Barnabas in Salamis, Cyprus, St. Mark, went to the God-walked land of Egypt.
In the famous Alexandria, he began his preaching with great zeal and first baptized Annianus, who also became His successor to the Episcopal Throne.
According to historical testimonies, during Mark’s second visit to Alexandria in 63 AD. on the day of Holy Pascha he was arrested and subjected to horrific torture.
With his blood he watered the tree of our faith and consecrated the Orthodox Church in the Land of the Nile. He wrote the Holy Gospel that bears his name.
Sacred Churches in his honour existed both in Alexandria and in Cairo in the district of Gurea.
The Patriarchal Offices of Cairo were housed there for a number of years. In the courtyard of this Church, Saint Nektarios built huts to accommodate the poor and needy.
His Beatitude Theodoros II, Pope and Patriarch of Alexandria and All Africa, honouring the great feast of the Saint, his first predecessor, officiated at Great Vespers, Orthros and the Divine Liturgy that took place today at the Patriarchal Church of St. Nicholas in Hamzaoui, Cairo.
Before the dismissal, he blessed the offered breads, praying that the Risen Lord, would always grant to the peoples of Africa and the entire world, material goods, health, patience and optimism.
